'Frontline Maritime Force': Rajnath Singh On Indian Coast Guard's Role During Operation Sindoor

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday lauded Indian Coast Guard’s role during Operation Sindoor and said it provided “a fast and firm response, deployed strategic assets in advance, increased surveillance along the western coast, and maintained a high alert in coastal and creek areas”.

Speaking at an event to mark the Indian Coast Guard’s (ICG) 50th Raising Day, Singh said that in the past five decades, the ICG has emerged as an “important pillar” of India’s strategic apparatus.

#WATCH | Delhi: At the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Indian Coast Guard, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says, “One of your major achievements has also been Operation Sindoor, which was carried out during a period of heightened maritime sensitivity. It was of great

importance… pic.twitter.com/LNJTTupkGu

— ANI (@ANI) February 1, 2026

He said: “One of your major achievements has also been Operation Sindoor, which was carried out during a period of heightened maritime sensitivity. It was of great importance that the Indian Coast Guard, providing a fast and firm response, deployed strategic assets in advance, increased surveillance along the western coast, and maintained a high alert in coastal and creek areas.”

“This operation has once again proven the role of the Coast Guard as the frontline force in India’s multi-layered maritime security system, and the inter-service coordination,” he said.

“From preventing terrorism, arms trafficking and human trafficking to combating drug smuggling, piracy, illegal trade and marine pollution, the ICG remains vigilant on every front,” Singh added.

The ICG, raised on February 1, 1977, was formed to address emerging maritime challenges and safeguard India’s expanding marine interests.

Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, Defence Secretary R K Singh, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi and Director General, ICG, Paramesh Sivamani, were present at the event hosted at the Bharat Mandapam here.

A commemorative stamp was also released on the occasion.

Established with just seven surface platforms, the ICG has evolved into a formidable maritime force comprising 155 ships and 80 aircraft, PTI quoted officials saying.